There are few things more beautiful than a sunset. As the sky turns from bright blue to shades of orange and red, it’s a sight that can take your breath away. And Phoenix is the perfect place to witness this natural wonder. With its wide-open spaces and stunning mountain views, the city offers plenty of prime locations to take in the show.
There are plenty of great spots to watch the sunset in Phoenix, and everyone has their favorites. Here are a few of our picks:
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South Mountain
10919 S. Central Ave., Phoenix
602-495-5458
Open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.
https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/south-mountain
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to watch the sunset in Phoenix, look no further than South Mountain. With its many hiking trails and lookout points, South Mountain offers some of the best views of metro Phoenix. In particular, Dobbins Lookout is a great spot to see the sunset and the downtown skyline. It’s also one of the highest accessible points in South Mountain Park and Preserve, so you can enjoy panoramic views of the Greater Phoenix area. To get to Dobbins Lookout, you can hike the 2.5-mile Holbert Trail or drive (although parking is limited). Either way, it’s sure to be a sunset you won’t forget!
Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix Convention Center
222 E. Portland St. Phoenix
602-675-3500
https://www.cambriahotelphoenix.com/
The Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix Convention Center offers a rooftop experience that is perfect for soaking in the stunning surroundings. This open-air space invites you to enjoy inventive cocktails and light bites while taking in the views of the Roosevelt Row Arts District.
Floor 13 Rooftop Bar
15 E. Monroe St., Phoenix
602-343-0006
Open Sunday-Thursday from 5 to 10 PM and Friday-Saturday from 5 PM. to midnight
https://floor13rooftopbar.com/
Floor 13 Rooftop Bar is a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy the Arizona sunset. From the rooftop terrace, you can admire the beautiful views of Phoenix’s skyline. Floor 13 is an ultra-chic sundeck that is perfect for enjoying the city’s sights and sounds.
Desert Botanical Garden
1201 N. Galvin Parkway Phoenix
480-941-1225
Open 7 AM-9 PM daily
Be sure to visit the Desert Botanical Garden. The garden is home to five themed trails that illustrate different aspects of desert life and conservation. But the real star of the show is the sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon against a backdrop of desert plants and red rock buttes is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Hole in the Rock at Papago Park
625 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix
602-495-5458
Open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.
https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park
Papago Park is a great place to spend an afternoon with your family or friends. There are plenty of trails to walk around on and a great spot to watch the sunset. Hole in the Rock is a natural geological formation that makes for a perfect photo opportunity. Spend some time at the Phoenix Zoo and then head over to Hole in the Rock for a beautiful view. It’s a short hike up to the formation, and you can see downtown Phoenix and the desert oasis below. The park gates close at 7 p.m., so make sure to plan your hike accordingly.
Tempe Town Lake
80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe
480-350-5200
https://www.tempe.gov/recreation/tempe-town-lake
The sunsets at Tempe Town Lake are some of the most beautiful in the city. They can be best enjoyed from a rental boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. These items can be rented from the Tempe Boat Rentals. The cost is very reasonable, and the experience is unforgettable.
Different Pointe of View
11111 N. Seventh St., Phoenix
602-866-6350
https://tapatiocliffshilton.com/dining/different-pointe-of-view/
Different Pointe of View is one of the most popular restaurants in Phoenix, thanks to its stunning views of the cityscape. The restaurant offers American cuisine with Mediterranean influences, and the dishes are designed to showcase the best of both worlds. The menu features items like roasted chicken with preserved lemon and rosemary, or seared scallops with saffron risotto. Watching the sun dip below the horizon as the sky blazes with colors is an experience you’ll never forget, and it’s just one of the reasons why reservations are recommended
Isabella’s Kitchen
8620 E. Thompson Peak Pkwy., Scottsdale
480-502-3100
Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
https://grayhawkgolf.com/dining-overview/isabellas-kitchen/
If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset, Isabella’s Kitchen is the place to be. With its beautiful outdoor seating and elegant fire pits, you and your entourage can enjoy the gorgeous views over the grassy lawns of Greyhawk Golf Clubs golf course. Whether it’s a weekday or weekend evening, this restaurant is worth a visit!
Elements
5700 E. McDonald Drive Paradise Valley
855-245-2051
https://www.gurneysresorts.com/scottsdale/dining/elements
The views at Elements Restaurant at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa are some of the most beautiful in Phoenix. The sunset is an incredible sight to see, and it’s a must-experience at Sanctuary. The food is also top-notch, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new to try. And of course, the wine selection is excellent.
Hayden Butte
E. Rio Salado Pkwy. and S. Mill Ave., Tempe
Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
https://www.tempe.gov/?navid=2823
Hayden Butte is a wonderful place to watch the sunset. The views from the top are absolutely beautiful, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the Arizona desert. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to watch the sun go down, Hayden Butte is worth checking out. The best part is that the hike is short enough that you can do it on a whim, no planning is required.
If you want to extend your time on the butte, there are plenty of spots to picnic or stargaze once the sun goes down. Hayden Butte is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace.
Lustre Rooftop Bar
2 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix
602-258-0231
Open Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-5 PM, Friday & Saturday 11 AM-10 PM
As the sun sets and the nightlife awakens, take a moment to relax at Lustre Rooftop Bar. With its comfortable atmosphere and stunning views of the Phoenix skyline, Lustre is the perfect place to unwind before a night on the town. Gaze at the gorgeous Arizona sunset as it dips below the horizon, and enjoy all that this unique bar has to offer.
Tips for watching sunsets, what to bring, when to go
When it comes to watching sunsets, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you go during the right time of year. Phoenix is beautiful year-round, but the best time to watch the sunset is usually during the winter or early spring when the days are a bit longer.
Another thing to consider is what you’ll need to bring. A blanket or chairs are always a good idea, as you’ll want to be comfortable while you’re enjoying the view. And of course, don’t forget the snacks! A picnic dinner is a perfect way to make the most of your sunset experience.
So grab your blankets and snacks and head to one of these great Phoenix sunset spots. You won’t be disappointed!
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